WHERE DEALS ARE MADE: EUROPE'S TOP VC HANGOUTS
Flashpoint Venture Capital
Since 2012 we have invested in US and Western European tech companies originating from Europe and Israel
#1 WHERE DEALS ARE MADE: EUROPE'S TOP VC HANGOUTS
In the initial stages, before founders proceed to the official pitch presentation, their earliest interaction with a VC often occurs in a casual setting like a coffee shop or during lunch. From Berlin to Stockholm, you will find the cafés and restaurants most beloved by founders and investors in Europe’s top tech hubs — where you could walk out with both flat white and a term sheet.
#2 THE MIDDLE EAST IS EMERGING AS A SERIOUS STARTUP HOTSPOT
Over the last decade, the Middle East has undergone a profound transformation. Traditionally viewed as an oil-rich region, the Middle East has been diversifying its economies, creating an entrepreneurial landscape ripe with opportunity. The region's dynamic economies, bolstered by ambitious economic diversification and innovation plans, have created a favorable environment for global entrepreneurs.
#3 THE UNICORN FIRE SALES AHEAD
The growing list of disappearing startups raises the question about what founders and investors can learn from the recent past. Valuations, of course, were one signal: The number of unicorns had reached insane levels—roughly 600 were minted in 2021, according to Crunchbase. Only 44 reached billion-dollar valuations in the first half of this year. Hopin, one of the most iconic startups of the pandemic era, said this week it sold its business.
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#4 FUSION IS HAVING A MOMENT
As Earth’s inhabitants suffer through what may wind up being the hottest year on record, there’s a Promethean spark of hope. Virtually unlimited fusion energy appears to be, if not right around the corner, at least within hailing distance. Physicists have proven it’s possible. Now it’s up to engineers to harness fusion energy to generate electricity. NIF finally succeeded in forcing the hydrogen isotopes deuterium and tritium to undergo a self-sustained fusion reaction.
#5 TIPS FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS TO CREATE MORE BALANCE
New research shows that 53% of managers feel burned out at work. The last couple years have been beyond challenging for business leaders. If you have begun to think it is impossible to stay on top of everything, you’re right. That is why you need to delegate. Whether it means hiring, outsourcing or simply trusting your people to manage some additional responsibilities, delegating is a step you need to take if you want to find balance.
If you enjoyed this newsletter, forward it to a friend. If you are a startup with a founder from Europe or Israel looking for financing, whether it is Seed, Series A, or later, submit your pitch deck!